🧀🍗 Baked Cheesy Chicken & Vegetables
Mediterranean-Inspired One-Pan Meal
🌿 Description
This Baked Cheesy Chicken & Vegetables is a wholesome Mediterranean-style comfort dish made in one pan. Juicy chicken breasts are baked with colorful vegetables, olive oil, garlic, herbs, and topped with just enough melted cheese for richness—without heaviness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a family-friendly dinner.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
Chicken & Vegetables
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4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
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2 cups broccoli florets
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 zucchini, sliced
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1 small red onion, sliced
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3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp black pepper
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¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Cheese Topping
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1 cup shredded mozzarella
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¼ cup grated Parmesan
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Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist
Garnish
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2️⃣ Season
In a bowl, toss chicken and vegetables with olive oil, garlic, and all seasonings.
3️⃣ Assemble
Arrange chicken in the center of the dish and spread vegetables around it evenly.
4️⃣ Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5️⃣ Add Cheese
Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and feta (if using).
Return to oven uncovered for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
6️⃣ Finish
Garnish with fresh herbs. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions (Mediterranean Style)
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Serve with brown rice, couscous, or quinoa
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Pair with a simple tomato–cucumber salad
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Enjoy with olive oil–drizzled whole-grain bread
❓ Q & A
Q: Is this dish healthy?
A: Yes—lean protein, vegetables, olive oil, and moderate cheese make it balanced and Mediterranean-friendly.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, but thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can I make it low-carb?
A: Absolutely. Skip grains and add extra non-starchy vegetables.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
